Before you go any further...

• Have you read all the information provided in the online academic fair? The link is HERE

• It is important that you read the information on this page carefully so you are prepared for your meeting with your mentor to make your subject choice.

• Whilst we do our very best to ensure everyone is able to follow their preferred subject combination, this is dependent on class sizes and scheduling considerations. If your first choice combination is not possible, we will support you in developing an alternative combination. 

What are the different subject groups?

There are six IB Diploma subject groups. Usually, you would choose one subject from groups 1 to 5, as well as a sixth subject that can come from any group apart from Group 5. 

The subjects offered in each subject group at UWC Costa Rica are:

HERE is a link where you can learn more about the subjects.

What are the restrictions on my subject choice?

You must:

• Choose 3 HL subjects and 3 SL subjects. We do not allow 4 HLs and 2 SLs.

• Choose six subjects. We do not allow students to study seven IB subjects.

• Select one subject from each group.  The only exceptions to this rule are:

You do not have to choose a Group 6 subject. Instead, you can choose a sixth subject from Groups 1 to 4.

Environmental Systems and Societies / Sistemas Ambientales y Sociedades can count as both a Group 3 and Group 4 subject at the same time. In this case, you will need to choose a sixth subject from Groups 1, 2, 3, 4, or 6. 

If you choose 2 subjects in Language A (Group 1), you do not have to take Language B (Group 2).

• Do not choose a Group 1, 2, or 5 subject at a level higher than your placement test result.

• Take TOK in whichever is your strongest language - English or Spanish.

• Do not choose subjects in the same timetable block (see table of option blocks)

Please note that:

 A course will not open if less than 7 students choose it.

All courses take place over two years with final exams in May 2027.

Which subjects are available in which timetable block?

When choosing your preferred subject combination, you must ensure that you select no more than one subject from each timetable block to avoid scheduling clashes:

Note: This schedule is subject to change.

Important information if you are considering school-supported Self-taught Literature SL

If you take self-taught literature then the SSST supervisor who teaches a course in studies in language and literature is Rolando.

He will:

• guide you in developing a booklist

• approve your booklist once completed, ensuring that it meets course requirements

• help you to set a timeline of study

• help you to choose which other language A classes you could attend to further your studies

• discuss the assessment components and the assessment criteria for the course

• meet with you individually about your progress at least once a month

• meet you and other SSST students as a group weekly at a fixed time in your school timetable

• administer the individual oral component

• connect with your first and best language tutor

• be a resource for your literary studies

• give you access to past papers and exemplars.

However, it is also a requirement that you have a tutor who is proficient in your first and best language. This person will help in areas where your SSST supervisor may not be able. The tutor will be particularly helpful when you start preparing for the assessment components and need feedback on your work. It is your responsibility to find a tutor. UWC Costa Rica will then provide the tutor with a document explaining the roles and responsibilities of the language tutor. 

Please note that not all languages are available for study and some may require us to make an advance application to the IB for permission. If you have any questions about this then please talk to Rolando.

University Admission

If you would like advice about how your subject choice will impact your university admission prospects, please email Sam or Steven, your college counselors alexandra.wiseman@uwccostarica.org and steven.johanson@uwccostarica.org